Paula Deen Corn Casserole Recipe

If there’s one dish I look forward to all year long, it’s Paula Deen Corn Casserole. This Southern comfort favorite transforms humble pantry ingredients into a luscious, cheesy side you’ll crave at every gathering. It’s creamy, golden, and just the right balance between savory and sweet—a bake that everyone, from picky eaters to casserole connoisseurs, will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every item in this Paula Deen Corn Casserole recipe is tried, true, and delivers a unique pop of flavor or texture. No fancy shopping required—these ingredients are simple, but together, they become pure Southern magic!

• Whole Kernel Corn (1 can): Drained for just the right juiciness and a crisp burst of sweet corn in every bite.
• Creamed-Style Corn (1 can): This brings creaminess and a hint of sweetness that binds the casserole together.
• Corn Muffin Mix (1 box): The secret shortcut to golden, fluffy texture with those toasty edges everyone loves.
• Sour Cream (1 cup): Gives the casserole its signature tang and silky, tender crumb.
• Butter, melted (½ cup): Adds richness and helps everything meld together during baking.
• Cheddar Cheese, shredded (1 to 1½ cups): For that warm, melty topping—use sharp cheddar for bold flavor or mild for extra gooeyness.

Variations

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. You can tweak Paula Deen Corn Casserole to match your cravings or accommodate what’s in your pantry—don’t be afraid to get creative!

• Add a Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños, green chilies, or a spoonful of hot sauce for a spicy southern flair.
• Make It Meaty: Fold in cooked, crumbled bacon or chopped ham for a heartier, savory twist.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free corn muffin mix—your casserole stays just as delicious without the gluten.
• Lighter Touch: Swap in Greek yogurt for sour cream and use reduced-fat cheese to cut a few calories without sacrificing flavor.

How to Make Paula Deen Corn Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F—a little anticipation never hurt anyone! Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a generous coating of nonstick spray to guarantee easy serving and picture-perfect squares.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a big mixing bowl, combine the drained whole kernel corn, creamed-style corn, corn muffin mix (just the dry mix—no eggs needed!), sour cream, and melted butter. Stir everything together until it looks creamy and thick, with no dry spots of muffin mix hiding at the bottom. It’s okay if it feels a little lumpy—the corn gives it that rustic charm!

Step 3: Bake the Base

Pour the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top turns beautifully golden and the edges start to pull away from the sides. Your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing at this point!

Step 4: Top with Cheese

Remove the casserole from the oven and generously sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top. Slide it back in, just until the cheese melts and bubbles—about 5 to 10 minutes. The cheese will form a melty, gooey crown that takes this Paula Deen Corn Casserole over the top!

Step 5: Rest & Serve

Let the casserole stand for 5 to 10 minutes. This short wait makes it easier to slice, and helps all those creamy, buttery flavors settle. Serve it warm and watch it disappear!

How to Serve Paula Deen Corn Casserole

Garnishes

A sprig of fresh parsley, a few sliced green onions, or a light dusting of smoked paprika are all you need to elevate each slice. The fresh green or vibrant red makes Paula Deen Corn Casserole pop on your holiday table—it’s the little details that turn a simple side into pure celebration.

Side Dishes

This casserole is the ultimate team player—it works beautifully alongside glazed ham, roast turkey, barbecue chicken, or even a pot roast! Add a crisp green salad or some tangy coleslaw, and you’ve got a feast that strikes the perfect harmony of flavors and textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Bake your Paula Deen Corn Casserole in individual ramekins for an elegant, dinner-party worthy presentation. Or, cut it into squares and serve with colorful toothpicks for a bite-sized party appetizer. No matter how you serve it, the gooey cheese and golden crust are sure to steal the spotlight!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftovers to room temperature, then cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container. Paula Deen Corn Casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, staying moist and flavorful for quick lunches or second helpings.

Freezing

You can freeze individual portions or the entire (cooled) casserole—simply wrap well in plastic and foil. Label and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

For best results, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through. Individual slices can also be reheated in the microwave—just do it in short bursts so the cheese topping doesn’t get rubbery. It’ll taste just as comforting as the day you made it!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Paula Deen Corn Casserole keeps showing up at family gatherings and Sunday dinners—one bite and you’ll understand! It’s down-home comfort at its finest and so easy, you’ll want to make it again and again. Grab those simple ingredients and treat your table (and your loved ones) to a spoonful of cozy, cheesy joy tonight.

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